In the last few years we have seen pieces of the end-times puzzle fall into place in some unexpected places and ways. Now I think another important piece may be about to appear.

While the Apostle John was on the small island of Patmos off the coast of what is now Turkey, he saw a vision of two terrible beasts coming. The first beast had 10 horns and came from the sea, the second had two horns and came from the earth - or land (Revelation 13).

Most of today's students of prophecy are very familiar with these two beasts. It is commonly understood that the first beast represents the Antichrist and his revival of the old Roman Empire under 10 kings. And, the second beast represents a coming religious leader, known as the False Prophet, who will help bring the world under the Antichrist's religious and economic control.

If you've read Recommendation 666, you know I suspect the first beast may be about to make his appearance in the new, super European Union. The reason I believe this is because we already have in place within the Council of Europe a 10-nation military alliance and one man holding emergency powers.

Here's my point: If the stage has already been set in Europe for the first beast to appear, it is likely the stage will soon be set for the second beast to appear as well. And, that's the reason this news report about the Pope's declining health should be of special interest to us (Read about it here).

According to this report, John Paul "knows his days are numbered." The reason people suspect the Pope knows this is because he suddenly moved the ceremony to confirm the new cardinals to this October instead of waiting for next February as was originally planned. And, it is from the existing and new cardinals the new Pope will be elected.

In other words, while John Paul's health is failing, the whole world is watching and waiting. This is because the next Pope will come at a very decisive moment in history as far as the reunification of Europe and the fulfillment of Bible prophecy is concerned.

This brings us to a fascinating question: Could the False Prophet also be waiting just off stage -- perhaps among these new cardinals (Read about them here)?

Stay tuned!